23 May Does Coffee Have Health Benefits?
Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. But, did you know there are also health benefits associated with drinking coffee? Coffee consumption is at an all-time highest, and for a good reason. Coffee health benefits range from energy boost and mental clarity to reduced risk of stroke.
Although caffeine is the best-known ingredient of coffee, it’s not the only reason for all the health benefits. Coffee is loaded with many different substances, including a wide range of antioxidants. So a decaf coffee can have the same coffee health benefits as a caffeinated one.
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Coffee has been praised for centuries. While opinions of coffee can vary greatly, coffee health benefits are well documented, and in this article, we will explore the top 10. So, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Coffee
Loaded with Powerful Antioxidants
Coffee is rich in several potent antioxidants, including polyphenols and hydrocinnamic acids. These antioxidants can help protect from many diseases. Furthermore, antioxidants fight inflammation, which can cause chronic conditions, such as atherosclerosis and arthritis.
Antioxidants protect our cells from being damaged, and thus, keep us healthy at a micro-level. With the processed and highly palatable foods we are eating daily, coffee is often the most significant contributor to one’s total antioxidant intake.
Reduced Risk of Stroke
People that drink 2 to 4 cups of coffee per day are associated with a lower risk of stroke. The reason for this is because coffee can increase blood pressure. Furthermore, coffee can reduce harmful cholesterol levels and improve blood flow in ways that can help prevent hypertension. Many doctors recommend coffee as a remedy for people that suffer from low blood pressure.
Coffee Reduces Risk of Parkinson’s Disease
According to several studies, coffee health benefits include the reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease. Coffee drinkers that enjoy a healthy dose of caffeine have a better chance of fighting this disease. In addition, caffeine can improve movement in people with Parkinson’s.
Protects Your Liver
The liver is a crucial part of the digestive process. As such, the liver influences our metabolism. The liver is often prone to infections and diseases such as cirrhosis, leading to scar development on the liver, hindering its functions.
The antioxidants in coffee can help fight against free radicals. Furthermore, coffee drinkers often have liver enzyme levels within a healthy range compared to those who don’t drink coffee.
Lowers the Risk of Type II Diabetes
When it comes to coffee health benefits, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes is worth mentioning. This is a major health problem, affecting millions of lives. While coffee is not the cure, caffeine can decrease insulin sensitivity and impair glucose tolerance as well.
Coffee Brightens Your Mood and Helps Fight Depression
Caffeine is one of the most popular stimulants globally and stimulates the central nervous system, resulting in increased serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline levels. The elevated levels can boost your mood, increase creativity, and prevent depression.
Coffee Helps You Focus and Stay Alert
Caffeine can improve your mental clarity and general cognitive function. This is because caffeine goes straight to your bloodstream, and from there, goes to your brain. Thus, coffee can improve various aspects, such as vigilance, mood, focus, and energy levels.
It Can Boost Your Physical Performance
Coffee can also boost your workout. Caffeine is a popular ingredient in every pre-workout supplement. For this reason, the increased energy levels from caffeine can enhance your athletic performance.
Besides being a stimulant, caffeine can also fight against fatigue and strengthens muscle contraction as well. Therefore, a cup of strong coffee before any physical activity is a great idea.
Coffee Can Help You Lose Weight
Not only can caffeine boost your metabolic rate, but it can also increase fat burning. In addition to this, coffee contains magnesium and potassium, minerals that can reduce sugar cravings. Combined with the increased levels of energy, coffee can help with weight loss.
Increases Life Expectancy
With all of the above-mentioned coffee health benefits, increased life expectancy might be the best one. Coffee prevents several diseases, increases energy, boosts mental clarity, which is bound to result in a long and happy life.
Conclusion
Is coffee good for you? Yes, absolutely. In moderation, coffee can be beneficial for most people. However, coffee is not a magical drink. If you combine coffee with a healthy lifestyle, the health benefits of coffee can be multiplied. So don’t be afraid to start your day with a cup of coffee or a shot of espresso.